Definition vs Explanation: Meaning And Differences

Are you confused about the difference between definition and explanation? These two terms are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between definition and explanation, and why it’s important to understand the distinction.

We should define what we mean by definition and explanation. A definition is a statement that explains the meaning of a word or phrase. It provides a clear and concise explanation of what a particular term means. On the other hand, an explanation is a more detailed account of a concept or idea. It goes beyond simply defining a term and provides additional context and information.

While both definition and explanation are important in understanding a concept or idea, they serve different purposes. Definitions are useful for providing a basic understanding of a term, while explanations are necessary for gaining a deeper understanding of a concept. In the rest of this article, we’ll explore the differences between definition and explanation in more detail, and why it’s important to understand the distinction.

Define Definition

Definition refers to the process of explaining the meaning of a word or phrase. It is a clear and concise statement that provides a precise explanation of what a particular term means. Definitions are often used in dictionaries, encyclopedias, and other reference materials to help readers understand the meaning of a word or concept.

Definitions can be formal or informal, and they can vary in length and complexity. A formal definition typically includes the term being defined, the category to which it belongs, and its distinguishing characteristics. An informal definition, on the other hand, may be more conversational in style and may not follow a strict format.

It is important to note that definitions are not always static. They can change over time as language evolves and new meanings are assigned to words. Additionally, different fields and disciplines may have their own unique definitions for certain terms.

Define Explanation

An explanation is a statement or account that provides a reason for why something happened or how something works. It is a more detailed and comprehensive description than a definition and often includes examples or evidence to support the explanation.

Explanations can take many forms, including written or verbal communication, diagrams, and demonstrations. They are often used in scientific, mathematical, or technical contexts to help people understand complex concepts or phenomena.

Unlike definitions, which focus on the meaning of a term, explanations focus on the underlying reasons or causes for a particular phenomenon. They may also explore the relationships between different concepts or phenomena.

It is important to note that explanations can vary in quality and accuracy. A good explanation should be clear, concise, and logically structured, and should provide evidence to support its claims.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

Understanding the difference between definition and explanation is crucial for clear communication. In this section, we will explore how to use these words in a sentence to convey your message effectively.

How To Use “Definition” In A Sentence

When using “definition” in a sentence, it is important to provide a clear and concise explanation of the meaning of a word or concept. This can be accomplished in several ways:

• Providing a dictionary definition: “According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the definition of ‘altruism’ is the belief in or practice of disinterested and selfless concern for the well-being of others.”
• Offering a personal definition: “In my opinion, the definition of success is achieving one’s goals while maintaining a sense of integrity and compassion.”
• Using a definition as a point of reference: “To better understand the concept of ‘cognitive dissonance,’ let’s start with a definition. According to social psychologist Leon Festinger, cognitive dissonance is the mental discomfort experienced by a person who holds two or more contradictory beliefs or values.”

By using “definition” in a sentence, you can provide clarity and context for your audience, ensuring that they understand the meaning of the term you are discussing.

How To Use “Explanation” In A Sentence

“Explanation” is used to provide a detailed account of a process, concept, or event. When using “explanation” in a sentence, it is important to break down complex ideas into manageable parts.

Here are some ways to use “explanation” in a sentence:

• Providing step-by-step instructions: “To assemble the bookshelf, I will give you a detailed explanation of each step.”
• Breaking down a complex concept: “Let me offer a simple explanation of the theory of relativity.”
• Clarifying a misunderstanding: “I want to offer an explanation for my behavior yesterday because I feel there was a misunderstanding.”

By using “explanation” in a sentence, you can help your audience understand complex ideas and processes, and clarify any misconceptions they may have.

More Examples Of Definition & Explanation Used In Sentences

In order to further understand the difference between definition and explanation, here are some examples of how they can be used in sentences:

Examples Of Using Definition In A Sentence

• The definition of “altruistic” is showing a selfless concern for the well-being of others.
• According to the dictionary definition, “sarcasm” is the use of irony to mock or convey contempt.
• Her explanation of the concept was not clear, so I had to look up the definition in a textbook.
• The legal definition of “assault” is the threat or use of force on another person that causes fear of physical harm.
• The dictionary definition of “love” is a strong feeling of affection or attachment towards someone.
• He struggled to come up with a definition for the abstract term “happiness.”
• The definition of “success” varies from person to person.
• She gave a clear definition of the scientific term, making it easier for the students to understand.
• The definition of “democracy” is a system of government by the whole population or all the eligible members of a state.
• His definition of “art” was quite broad, encompassing everything from paintings to music to dance.

Examples Of Using Explanation In A Sentence

• The teacher’s explanation of the math problem was very helpful.
• She provided a detailed explanation of how the computer program worked.
• His explanation of the scientific theory was too complex for me to understand.
• The doctor’s explanation of the medical procedure put the patient at ease.
• She gave a thorough explanation of why she was late to the meeting.
• His explanation of the historical event was full of interesting details.
• The coach’s explanation of the new play helped the team execute it successfully.
• She offered a simple explanation of the complicated concept, making it easier for everyone to grasp.
• His explanation of the company’s financial situation was not very reassuring.
• The scientist’s explanation of the experiment’s results was met with skepticism by some of his colleagues.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to using definitions and explanations, people often make the mistake of using the terms interchangeably. This can lead to confusion and misunderstandings. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

1. Using Definitions As Explanations

One common mistake is using a definition as an explanation. A definition provides a general idea of what something means, but it does not explain how it works or why it is important. For example, if someone asks you to explain how a car engine works, providing a definition of an engine will not be sufficient. Instead, you need to provide an explanation that breaks down the parts and functions of the engine.

2. Using Explanations As Definitions

Another mistake is using an explanation as a definition. An explanation provides a detailed account of how something works or why it is important, but it does not provide a clear and concise definition. For example, if someone asks you to define the term “democracy,” providing a lengthy explanation of how democracy works in practice will not be helpful. Instead, you need to provide a simple and concise definition that captures the essence of what democracy is.

3. Failing To Distinguish Between Definitions And Explanations

A third mistake is failing to distinguish between definitions and explanations. Definitions provide the meaning of a term, while explanations provide the reasoning behind a concept or process. Failing to make this distinction can lead to misunderstandings and confusion. For example, if someone asks you to define the term “global warming,” providing an explanation of the causes and effects of global warming may be helpful, but it does not provide a clear definition of the term.

Tips For Avoiding These Mistakes

To avoid these common mistakes, it is important to keep in mind the differences between definitions and explanations. Here are some tips:

• Always start with a clear definition before providing an explanation.
• Use examples to illustrate your points and clarify your definitions and explanations.
• Be concise and clear in your language, avoiding jargon and technical terms unless necessary.
• Check for understanding by asking questions and encouraging feedback from your audience.

Context Matters

When it comes to choosing between a definition and an explanation, context is everything. The choice between the two can depend on the situation in which they are used. In some cases, a definition may be more appropriate, while in others, an explanation may be the better choice.

Examples Of Different Contexts

Let’s take a look at some examples of different contexts and how the choice between definition and explanation might change:

• Academic Writing: In academic writing, definitions are often used to provide clarity and precision. For example, if you are writing a paper on the concept of “justice,” you may start by providing a definition of the term. On the other hand, if you are writing a paper on a complex topic, such as quantum mechanics, an explanation may be more appropriate to help the reader understand the concept.
• Marketing: In marketing, explanations are often used to persuade customers to buy a product or service. For example, a company may explain the benefits of using their product, rather than simply providing a definition of what the product is. However, in some cases, such as when introducing a new product category, a definition may be necessary to establish what the product is and why it is needed.
• Education: In education, definitions and explanations are used to help students learn new concepts. Definitions are often used to introduce new vocabulary, while explanations are used to help students understand how the concept works. For example, a teacher may provide a definition of “photosynthesis,” but then provide an explanation of how it works in the context of a plant’s life cycle.

Overall, the choice between a definition and an explanation depends on the context in which they are used. By considering the purpose of the communication and the needs of the audience, you can make an informed decision about which approach to take.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the rules for using definition and explanation are generally straightforward, there are some exceptions where they may not apply. Here are a few examples:

1. Technical Terminology

When writing about technical subjects, it may be necessary to use terms that are not commonly understood by the average reader. In these cases, it may be better to provide an explanation rather than a definition. For example, if you are writing about a specific programming language, you may need to explain the meaning of terms such as “object-oriented programming” or “inheritance” rather than simply providing a definition.

2. Cultural Context

When writing for an international audience, it’s important to consider cultural differences that may affect the understanding of certain terms. In these cases, it may be more appropriate to provide an explanation rather than a definition. For example, if you are writing about a holiday or tradition that is specific to a certain culture, it may be necessary to provide some background information to help readers understand the context.

3. Subjectivity

There are certain topics where definitions may be subjective or open to interpretation. In these cases, it may be better to provide an explanation that offers some context or perspective. For example, if you are writing about a controversial topic such as politics or religion, it may be more appropriate to provide an explanation that presents different points of view rather than a definition that may be seen as biased.

4. Practical Applications

When writing about practical applications of a concept, it may be more helpful to provide examples rather than a definition or an explanation. For example, if you are writing about the benefits of a certain type of exercise, it may be more effective to provide examples of exercises that fall into that category rather than simply defining what that type of exercise is.

Overall, while definitions and explanations are useful tools for helping readers understand complex concepts, it’s important to consider the context and purpose of your writing to determine whether they are the most effective approach.

Practice Exercises

Improving your understanding and use of definition and explanation can be achieved through practice. Here are some practice exercises to help you:

Exercise 1: Definition Vs Explanation

For each of the following sentences, determine whether the underlined word is being defined or explained:

1.	The computer is an electronic device that can store, retrieve, and process data.
2.	Because it was raining outside, I decided to stay indoors.
3.	The car is a mode of transportation that uses four wheels and an engine.
4.	Although she studied hard, she still failed the exam.

Answer key:

• 1. Defined
• 2. Explained
• 3. Defined
• 4. Explained

Exercise 2: Writing Definitions And Explanations

Write a definition and an explanation for each of the following words:

1.	Resilience
2.	Photosynthesis
3.	Gravity

Answer key:

• 1. Definition: Resilience is the ability to recover quickly from difficulties. Explanation: When someone is resilient, they are able to bounce back from setbacks and continue moving forward.
• 2. Definition: Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy. Explanation: Plants use photosynthesis to produce food for themselves and other organisms.
• 3. Definition: Gravity is the force that attracts two objects with mass towards each other. Explanation: Gravity is what keeps us on the ground and what keeps the planets in orbit around the sun.

Conclusion

After exploring the concepts of definition and explanation, it is clear that they serve distinct purposes in the realm of language use. Definitions provide a precise meaning for a word or phrase, while explanations offer a deeper understanding of a concept or idea.

It is important to use these tools effectively in communication, especially in professional settings where clarity and accuracy are essential. By providing clear definitions and thorough explanations, writers and speakers can ensure that their message is understood by their audience.

Key Takeaways:

• Definitions provide a precise meaning for a word or phrase.
• Explanations offer a deeper understanding of a concept or idea.
• Both tools are important in effective communication.
• Using clear definitions and thorough explanations can ensure that a message is understood by an audience.

As with any aspect of language use, there is always more to learn. By continuing to explore grammar and language use, readers can improve their communication skills and become more effective writers and speakers.